Urinalysis: May be normal or may show proteinuria.Biochemical profile: May be normal or may show elevations in liver enzymes.Complete blood count (CBC): May be normal or may show low white blood cell counts (WBCs).Recent studies linked the following breeds to DCM: Growth retard Are some breeds more pre-disposed to DCM? The signs of taurine deficiency can vary depending on the severity of the deficiency. In a study of Newfoundlands, all dogs with the retinal disease had low plasma taurine concentrations and Backus (2003) concluded that low plasma taurine was the cause of the retinal disease.ĭogs with these lesions should have their taurine levels checked and may need to be supplemented. The appearance of these lesions has been associated with dysfunction and eventual loss of the photoreceptors in the retina. #2.Bilaterally symmetrical hyperreflective retinal lesions:ĭogs with low plasma taurine were found to have abnormal, bilaterally symmetrical hyperreflective retinal lesions. The most common sign of taurine deficiency in dogs is dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition that leads to an enlarged heart and eventually heart failure.īlood testing and physical examination and other tests such as Chest X-ray and ECG are some of the diagnostic techniques would be utilized to determine and diagnose the DCM’s severity. However, some breeds of dogs, such as Newfoundlands and Golden Retrievers, are more likely to be deficient in taurine and may need a taurine supplement. This can occur in both homemade diets and commercial diets but is more common with homemade diets. Taurine inadequacy can develop as a result of sulfur-containing amino acids (methionine and cysteine) not being incorporated into the diet over time in the right ratios. In other words, dogs can usually make enough taurine if they are eating a well-balanced diet. Taurine can be manufactured by dogs from the amino acids present in most pet foods and many dog foods are not supplemented with taurine. However, taurine deficiency can lead to serious health problems including blindness, seizures, and heart failure. In fact, it is an important nutrient that supports several functions in the body.

Helps with fat metabolism Is Taurine bad for dogs? Some of the benefits of Taurine for dogs include:ĥ. While NRC and AAFCO did not indicate Taurine as a non-dispensable nutrient for dogs, some dogs that get fed exclusive commercial diets end up getting taurine deficiency. Yes, Taurine is good for dogs and dogs actually have a way of synthesizing Taurine from other amino acids in order to obtain this nutrient. Taurine also helps to regulate calcium levels in the brain and plays a role in fat metabolism. It helps to protect cells from damage and supports healthy cell membranes. Taurine plays an important role in the development and function of the retina. Taurine deficiency can cause a number of problems including blindness, seizures, and heart failure. If your dog feeds on low-sulfur diets, you should consider giving taurine supplements as they are important nutrients dogs. Taurine is very important for your dog – especially for large-breed dogs. Yes, dogs need Taurine immensely and the only reason AAFCO and NRC indicated that Taurine is a non-essential nutrient for dogs is because dogs have a way of synthesizing/obtaining this nutrient from other diets. Taurine deficiency can lead to serious health problems including blindness, seizures, and heart failure. Pets that are not eating a meat-based diet may be taurine deficient. It can also be synthesized in the laboratory. Taurine is found naturally in meat and fish. It also helps keep the heart muscle healthy. In dogs, taurine supports cognitive development and can help prevent retinal degeneration. Taurine is also important for the health of cell membranes, particularly in the brain and eyes. In cats, taurine is essential for cardiovascular function, retinal development, and reproduction. The highest concentrations are found in the muscles, heart, and brain. It is a major constituent of bile and can be found in the large intestine. Taurine is an organic compound that is widely distributed in animal tissues. Best Taurine Supplement for Dogs:Taurine Supplement for Dogs by Dr.Taurine dosage for dogs with heart disease.What are the benefits of Taurine for dogs and?.Health issues caused by Taurine Deficiency:.Are some breeds more pre-disposed to DCM?.#2.Bilaterally symmetrical hyperreflective retinal lesions:.

Taurine supplement for dogs